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Match Report

Report: Reading 3 Blackpool 0

Blackpool remain rooted to the bottom of The Championship after a dismal afternoon in Reading.

Three goals without reply subjected José Riga's side to another defeat, after they provided little in way of a response at the Madejski Stadium.

Glenn Murray's header had put The Royals in front, before a Peter Clarke own goal and Nick Blackman's penalty confirmed the result.

With the majority of Pool's current relegation rivals picking up three points, it was another damaging defeat.

It was the hosts who threatened early on, first Oliver Norwood had an effort deflected over the bar, and then his rasping drive was palmed to safety by Joe Lewis.

The opening 23 minutes had been arguably the most uneventful of the season, but Blackpool found themselves behind when Murray met Jordan Obita's cross and his header crept past Lewis, who might feel he could have done better.

There had been little to choose between the two out-of-form sides to that point, and Nathan Delfouneso's weak header did little to change the scoreline.

While goalmouth action was of a minimum, Clarke's altercation with Jamie Mackie reiterated the importance of the match.

No further chances followed however, as the Reading went in ahead after an uninspiring 45 minutes.

Half Time: Reading 1 Blackpool 0

José Riga altered things at half time, bringing on Nile Ranger for his first appearance since the international break, with Francois Zoko making way.

And The Seasiders were improved after the break, with Ishmael Miller testing Adam Federici in the home goal.

Edu Oriol was next to try his luck, but after his effort was deflected wide Ranger headed the following corner off target.

At the other end Hal Robson-Kanu dragged an effort wide, before Formose Mendy replaced Oriol.

Robson-Kanu was involved a lot more after the break, and headed over his second chance of the half, so it was little surprise when the hosts doubled their lead.

Indecision at the back led to Clarke finding his own net, with Jake Taylor initially credited with the goal.

And minutes later their victory should have been confirmed, as Robson-Kanu caught Lewis in no man's land, but his cross was blazed over by Mackie from six yards out, with the goal gaping.

Blackpool's final substitution saw Jacob Mellis replace Andrea Orlandi, and the midfielder was instantly involved when he tested Federici with a low drive.